Your Online Store’s Been Hacked. Here’s the Worst that Could Happen

You might think that a hacker is someone who happened to get lucky guessing a password when trying to gain access to someone’s computer. This is hardly the case as hackers rely on sophisticated software and hardware to scan hundred, even thousands of computers at a time.

Today’s hackers are automated and can hack into more computers imaginable at a given time and in a few keystrokes, can already gain full control of any computer.

The worst that can happen when your online store’s been hacked

Once they are in your computer, they can then go through all your files in the same way an intruder is looking through your underwear drawer. Not only do you worry they may pluck out something personal but you also feel completely violated.

If you store all your passwords on file in your computer, keep digital images of your bank or credit card statements or bank account number, then that hacker has just gotten access to it all. A cybercriminal has all the information they need to steal your identity and make purchases under your name; even go as far as consume your frequent flyer miles and use your health insurance with just the following information:

• your credit card numbers

• bank account number

• passwords

• social security number

The worst that can happen to your online store

Earlier this year, Acer admitted its servers were breached, and someone stole the financial credit card data and personal records of about 34,000 customers. Someone managed to steal names, addresses, and credit card details of customers who used the electronics giant’s e-commerce site between May 12, 2015 and April 28, 2016, Credit card details that were stolen included:

• the last digits of the credit card number

• expiration date

• 3-digit security codes.

If a hacker was able to breach your online store, they could easily steal the same information that was taken from Acer. You are now responsible for whatever that hacker has planned for all your customers’ information. The hackers now have a huge list of identities they can steal with which they can make purchases with and impersonate to commit more crimes. On top of that, they have:

• customers’ purchase histories

• home addresses

• billing addresses

• passwords (they may use across all their accounts including email and online banking)

Cybercriminals know how vital this information is and how crucial it is for your business that your customers never lose their trust in you. Because of this, hackers can take the fact that they have breached your security and hold these files for ransom, Hackers may be able to extort a lot of money from you because they know how damaging a security breach like this would be to your business’s reputation. You stand to lose your credibility, trust of your clients which will lead to the loss of customers and ultimately, the downfall of your company.

Fortunately, there are so many options out there when it comes to securing your online store and protecting it from hackers. You just need to do the research and take action. Remember, it is better to be prepared than wait until the damage has been done.